Public Hearings

Public Hearings are formal proceedings that give citizens an opportunity to express their views on a specific topic. Some items that require Public Hearings are annual budgets, public improvement /planning projects, and levying of special assessments. Citizens wishing to speak are asked to complete a form and indicate if they are for or against the topic. Proponents and Opponents will be given approximately the same amount of time to address the topic with a limit of one hour for each side. Therefore, it’s important to organize a presentation prior to the hearing. For those who do not wish to speak but wish to declare their position, a form is available which then becomes part of the permanent record. A typical hearing format consists of:

· The Mayor opens the hearing.

· City staff describes the proposal.

· Public comments are heard.

· The Mayor closes the hearing.

· Councilmembers have an opportunity to comment and ask questions of City staff.